The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education is a globally respected philosophy that originated in Italy after World War II. Known for its innovative, child-centered perspective, this approach sees children as competent, curious, and full of potential. At Evoke Early Learning, we are proud to embody the Reggio Emilia philosophy, integrating its core principles into our curriculum to foster holistic development in children.
1. What is the Reggio Emilia Philosophy?
Founded by Loris Malaguzzi, the Reggio Emilia philosophy is built on the belief that children learn best through self-directed, experiential learning in a relationship-driven environment. Children are seen as active participants in their learning journey, capable of expressing themselves in multiple ways, often referred to as the "hundred languages of children." This philosophy is foundational to our approach at Evoke Early Learning.
Further Reading: What Is the Reggio Emilia Philosophy?
2. Key Principles of Reggio Emilia
Key components of the Reggio Emilia approach include:
- Respect for the Child: Children are treated as individuals with rights and capabilities.
- The Hundred Languages of Children: Recognition that children express themselves through many forms—art, music, movement, play, and more.
- The Environment as the Third Teacher: Classrooms are designed to inspire exploration and collaboration.
- Documentation of Learning: Teachers document children's thoughts and progress to reflect and plan future learning experiences.
Further Reading:
- Respect the Child – A Key Factor of the Reggio Emilia Approach
- The Hundred Languages of Children (waiting for other blog approval)
- The Environment as the Third Teacher
3. Classroom Implementation at Evoke
At Evoke Early Learning, our Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms are dynamic environments where children are encouraged to explore, question, and engage deeply with materials and ideas. Educators act as co-learners and guides, setting up provocations and projects that align with children's interests and developmental stages.
Further Reading:
- Implementing the Reggio Emilia Approach in the Classroom
- Inspired by Reggio Emilia – Delivered by Evoke: A Curriculum for Lifelong Success
4. Home and Community Engagement
We believe learning extends beyond the classroom. Reggio Emilia at home and in the community is essential to a child's development. Parents are seen as partners, and community experiences are woven into the curriculum to enrich learning. Families are encouraged to actively engage in their child’s educational journey.
Further Reading:
- Your Complete Guide to Incorporating Reggio Emilia Ideas at Home
- Community as Curriculum: The Role of Families in Reggio Emilia
5. Comparing Educational Philosophies
The Reggio Emilia approach differs from other educational philosophies like Montessori in its emphasis on collaboration, flexible curriculum, and aesthetic environments. It provides a more open-ended, emergent curriculum that evolves with the child’s interests, making it a unique choice for early childhood education.
Further Reading: Reggio Emilia vs Montessori
6. Inclusivity and Adaptability
This child-led learning philosophy is inclusive and adaptable, catering to diverse learners by valuing different cultural backgrounds, learning styles, and developmental needs. Reggio Emilia supports educators in creating learning environments where every child can thrive.
Further Reading: Reggio Emilia for All: Adapting the Approach for Diverse Learners
Conclusion
The Reggio Emilia approach offers a profound, respectful, and inspiring way to educate young children. As one of Australia's leading Reggio Emilia early childhood education providers, Evoke Early Learning embraces this philosophy to nurture curious, capable, and compassionate learners. Explore our centres to see this transformative approach in action and discover how we help children flourish through Reggio Emilia-inspired education.
If you're located near our childcare centres in Melbourne, we invite you to experience the Reggio Emilia philosophy firsthand.
We would love to welcome you and show you how Evoke Early Learning can support your child's educational journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Reggio Emilia approach suitable for all children?
Yes, the Reggio Emilia philosophy is designed to be inclusive and adaptable. It respects each child's individual learning style, interests, and cultural background, making it suitable for diverse learners.
2. How does Reggio Emilia differ from other approaches like Montessori?
While both philosophies value independence and hands-on learning, Reggio Emilia focuses more on collaborative group work, the environment as a teacher, and project-based exploration that emerges from children's interests.
3. Can I apply the Reggio Emilia approach at home?
Absolutely. Parents can encourage open-ended play, ask thoughtful questions, provide creative materials, and observe children's interests to support learning at home in a Reggio-inspired way.
4. What role do teachers play in Reggio Emilia classrooms?
Teachers act as co-learners and researchers alongside children. They observe, document, and reflect on children’s activities to support and extend learning through carefully designed provocations.
5. How can I learn more about Reggio Emilia at Evoke?
You can explore our other blog posts, visit our centres, or speak with one of our educators to learn how Evoke integrates Reggio Emilia principles into every aspect of early childhood education.
Tracey is a highly qualified educator and administrator and brings a strong combination of academic achievement, extensive work experience in the education and business sectors as well as drive and passion to her role as General Manager of Operations at Evoke Early Learning.
Tracey has a Master of Education and an Advanced Diploma of Business and holds VIT Dual Registration to teach in Early Childhood and Primary School settings. She’s also a VIT Trained Mentor Teacher and has worked in ECEC settings as a Director, Educational Leader and as a Victorian Senior Area manager. Her recognition as a state finalist in the recent Director of the Year Awards is testament to her achievements in the early education sector.
Her extensive work experience also included a stint as Head of Curriculum at the Royal Children’s Hospital Education Institute and positions as head of ICT at a number of large primary and secondary schools. Tracey is also experienced in not-for-profit sessional kindergarten settings and long daycare environments, so she has a deep understanding of what’s required to support the needs and expectations of young children, educators, parents and caregivers.
Tracey is responsible for operational management at Evoke Early Learning’s Clayton centre in Oakleigh East and their Albert Park centre in South Melbourne and is deeply committed to leading and driving effective and sustainable service delivery throughout the company.
Tracey is passionate about making a meaningful difference to young children, their parents and the wider community and under her expert guidance, Evoke Early Learning is continuing to raise the bar in quality early education and childcare.
